One of the largest military tour operators in the world has been on a fact-finding tour in Derry this week with a view to operating in the city.

Representatives from US Historical Military Tours are exploring the possibility of developing tours featuring the city’s links with the US Marines, the Battle of The Atlantic and the surrender of the German U Boats at Lisahally.

The visit included a three-day tour of Northern Ireland focusing on its role in World War II and the group enjoyed a reception hosted by the Mayor of Derry, Councillor Brenda Stevenson.

Welcoming the delegation to the city, Cllr Stevenson said: “Derry’s role was pivotal during the Second World War with the US Navy choosing the Foyle as the location for its ‘Base One Europe’. Northern Ireland was of great strategic importance because of its geographic distance from mainland Europe and its proximity to the Atlantic.

“The ‘Base One Europe-Beech Hill Camp Museum’ - located at the Beech Hill Country House Hotel in Ardmore – already charts the history of the US Naval Operating Base and US Marine Corps during the War.”

US Historical Military Tours, who bring in excess of 500,000 visitors on international tours each year, were hosted on their stay by Tourism Ireland and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.